Lozenges for Coughs & Colds

*Why Zumbani? Lippia javanic (or Zumbani) is a plant with aromatic leaves and has been used in Africa for generations for its medicinal properties. This balsamic medicinal herbal tea is traditionally used to treat coughs, colds, bronchial problems and to bring down fever. It has also been used in treating dysentery, diarrhoea and headaches. The plant possesses analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-pyretic and anti-bacterial properties. As well as being incredibly effective in addressing throat and chest infections (as well as fever), it contains vital minerals such as copper, zinc and iron.

And you can’t go wrong with hibiscus either, as it holds many healing properties and boosts the immune system. Furthermore, it contains numerous nutrients including vitamin C, antioxidants and minerals.

Method

Prepare your herbal infusion:

Slice thinly 1 fresh lemon and add a few tablespoons of tea to a small pot.

Add 2 cups of spring water. Simmer on low for 10 minutes until desired strength is achieved. Strain and reserve 1 cup of the infused water.

Place the infused herbal water and put in a large deep pot (you will need the extra room to keep the sugar from boiling over.) Add the 1 1/2 cups of raw sugar and stir until dissolved. Boil this mixture over medium to medium-high heat, without stirring, until it reaches 150°C. Periodically wipe down the insides with a pastry brush and water or a dampened rag to prevent crystallisation from occurring.

Fill a large cookie sheet with corn starch. Using something small, like a bottle cap, make tiny indentations in the starch.

After removing the boiled sugar mixture from the heat, let it cool slightly then stir in your peppermint extract then pour teaspoonfuls of the hot mixture into the powder sugar forms and allow to harden. Flip the lozenges over so the entire lozenges are coated, to prevent sticking. Store in a tight lidded jar in cool place.